Make Your Memorial Day Gathering Unforgettable With 29 Must-Try Recipes

ByMandy

f planning food for Memorial Day has ever made you consider just handing out napkins and hoping for the best, this list makes life easier. With 29 easy wins lined up, the stress isn’t invited this time. People might forget the decorations or even your name, but they’ll remember that plate they kept going back to.

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats in star shapes, decked out in red, white, and blue colors, are sprinkled with fun decorations and beautifully stacked on a plate.
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Crunchy Onion Rings

A close-up of crispy, golden-brown onion rings sprinkled with chopped parsley and black pepper on a white parchment-lined surface captures perfection in every bite.
Crunchy Onion Rings. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you bite into these, you’ll find a satisfying crunch that’s a hit with all ages. Perfect for those who love a side with a bit of texture, Crunchy Onion Rings are an instant classic at any gathering. Share these with friends and watch them disappear fast. It’s a simple pleasure that complements any burger or hot dog on your grill.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Onion Rings

Biscoff Ice Cream

Scoops of ice cream with chunks of cookie and a whole cookie piece placed on top in a glass bowl.
Biscoff Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine scooping into a chilled treat that nods to your favorite cookie spread. Biscoff Ice Cream combines sweet, caramel-like flavors in a frozen dessert form. Great for cooling off and enjoying a unique twist on traditional ice cream flavors. Hand out cones of this to the smiles and surprise of your guests.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Ice Cream

Honeycrisp Salad

A bowl of mixed greens salad with sliced Honeycrisp apples, walnuts, and crumbled blue cheese.
Honeycrisp Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A balance of sweet and crisp comes together in a refreshing salad option, Honeycrisp Salad refreshes and complements any main dish. It’s a refreshing choice that adds a light touch to your Memorial Day table. Serve this and watch it provide a fresh counterpoint to the heartier barbecue fare. Perfect for those looking for something crisp and juicy on their plate.
Get the Recipe: Honeycrisp Salad

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With vibrant colors and sweet tastes, this dessert doubles as a centerpiece. Fruit Pizza is a playful dish that kids and adults flock to. It’s easy to share and even easier to customize with your favorite fruits. Every slice serves up a beautiful mix of flavors and colors.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach.
Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

With a rich taste and hearty toppings, this is not your average slice. Artichoke Pizza is for those who like their pizza with a twist. It stands out from the crowd with its unique blend of flavors. Easy to hold with one hand, it lets you keep mingling while you munch.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Strawberry Pie

Close-up of a strawberry pizza featuring a thin crust topped with a layer of strawberry sauce and sliced strawberries, evoking the wonderful appearance of a strawberry pie with its vibrant red color.
Strawberry Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hand out slices of this and watch faces light up. A classic dessert with a fruity twist, Strawberry Pie combines sweet and tart in every bite. It’s a fine finish to any meal, especially a barbecue. Enjoy the balance of fruit and crust that makes every forkful a delight.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pie

Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

A bowl of vibrant pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced cucumbers, red onions, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

The grill isn’t just for meat; it’s also for adding a smoky depth to your sides. Tossed together, Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies is a hearty addition to your spread. It’s filling without being heavy, making it an ideal companion to meats. Share a bowl of this and watch it go quickly in a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies

Homemade Buckeyes

Close-up of homemade buckeyes, featuring chocolate-covered peanut butter balls. One is bitten to reveal the creamy peanut butter filling inside.
Homemade Buckeyes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chocolate and peanut butter is a match made in heaven. Homemade Buckeyes are bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking on throughout your event. Pop one in your mouth, and you’ll want to come back for more. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Buckeyes

BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ sauce in a jar with two spoons by the side.
BBQ Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smother it on ribs, brush it on burgers or use it as a dip – it’s up to you. A good BBQ Sauce takes any dish from good to great with its rich, smokey flavor. Whip up a batch and watch it become the MVP of your barbecue. It’s about finding that perfect balance that makes every dish sing.
Get the Recipe: BBQ Sauce

Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Vanilla and lemon cupcakes with swirled pink raspberry buttercream frosting, each topped with a fresh raspberry, arranged closely together.
Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When tangy meets sweet, you know it’s going to be a good time. These Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting are little bursts of sunshine with a pop of color. Perfect for those who want a personal-sized dessert with a fruity kick. The combination of lemon and raspberry will have guests reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cupcakes with Raspberry Frosting

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Variety is the slice of life, and this pizza gives you just that. With Neapolitan Pizza, you get the traditional Italian experience, offering tomato, mozzarella, and fresh basil. It’s an authentic taste that’ll make your backyard feel like a little Italy. Plus, its simplicity is something to be admired among the complexities of other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups

Three-layered red, white, and blue dirtcups with vibrant fillings are topped with various candies and sprinkles, all perfectly arranged on a red and white checkered cloth.
Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a patriotic touch to your treat table can be fun and delicious. Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups play with color while delivering on chocolaty goodness. These individual cups are easy to grab and go, ensuring everyone gets a bit of dessert. Plus, they’re a festive nod to the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Red, White, and Blue Dirt Cups

Strawberry Dump Cake

A close-up of a fruit crumble dessert topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Strawberry Dump Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s all in the name – quick, easy, and unbelievably tasty. Nothing says casual dessert like a Strawberry Dump Cake, where simplicity meets flavor. A crowd favorite that’s as effortless to prepare as it is to enjoy. It’s a win-win for both the one serving and those indulging.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Dump Cake

Black Bean Sliders

A black bean burger with a slice of cheese, cilantro, and red onion, served on a toasted bun.
Black Bean Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These are perfect for guests who prefer a meat-free option. Black Bean Sliders pack a flavorful punch in a smaller, shareable size. They’re easy to handle, meaning you can keep the conversation going while you eat. Plus, they’re a reminder that good things come in small packages.
Get the Recipe: Black Bean Sliders

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This classic comfort food is a must-have at family gatherings. Mac and Cheese brings creamy, cheesy goodness everyone can rally around. Serve it up hot and watch it vanish before your eyes. It’s a universal favorite that’s always welcome on the table.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite into one of these, and you’re met with a burst of fresh flavors. Caprese Pesto Tarts offer a stylish mini appetizer that’s as delicious as it looks. The combination of tomato, mozzarella, and pesto is always a winner. Plus, their small size makes them the perfect snack to tide guests over as they wait for the main event.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Tzatziki

A bowl of creamy tzatziki sauce garnished with chopped dill and a swirl of olive oil. Fresh dill and garlic are nearby.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cool and creamy, with a refreshing taste, this sauce is a multitasker. Upgrade your menu with Tzatziki, perfect as a dip or a spread. It pairs well with everything from fresh veggies to grilled lamb. A dollop of this can add a fresh twist to your classic barbecue spread.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Neat, tidy, and packed with flavor, they’re an ideal finger food. Pinwheel Sandwiches are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for nibbling on as you move through the crowd. Offering a variety of fillings can cater to every taste at your party.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Waldorf Salad

Waldorf salad on a bed of lettuce, with salad servers resting on top.
Waldorf Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

It’s a refreshing mix that’s stood the test of time for a reason. Waldorf Salad offers a crunchy, sweet, and nutty experience in every forkful. Serve it chilled, and it becomes an instant refresher for your guests. This is the salad that can convert even the most determined salad-skipper.
Get the Recipe: Waldorf Salad

Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Close-up of grilled veggie kabobs with zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and onions, garnished with fresh herbs.
Grilled Veggie Kebobs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eating your veggies becomes a treat when they’re served up like this. Grilled Veggie Kebobs deliver charred flavors on a stick, easy for eating and enjoying. Whether as a side or main for veggie lovers, they’re sure to please. These are a surefire hit for adding variety to your grilling options.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggie Kebobs

Red Cabbage Coleslaw

A bowl of fresh red cabbage coleslaw garnished with herbs.
Red Cabbage Coleslaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Here’s a slaw that brings crunch and color to your picnic table. Red Cabbage Coleslaw is a tangy side that’s both vibrant and mellow. Add it to a sandwich or enjoy it on its own – it’s versatile. This is the kind of side dish that makes heavy barbecues feel a lot lighter.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw

Veggie Sliders

Close-up of a Veggie Burger Slider with a fried patty, sliced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, greens, and mayonnaise in a bun. In the background, a blurred portion of another slider and a dish are visible.
Veggie Sliders. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Miniature in size but big on taste, get ready for a veggie delight. Veggie Sliders are a fantastic offering for guests looking for a lighter bite. Each little burger is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for those wanting something different. They’re a testament to how creative vegetarian options can get.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Sliders

Oreo Cheesecake

A slice of cookies and cream cheesecake is being lifted from a plate. The cake has a crumbly cookie crust, creamy filling with cookie pieces, and a topping of crushed cookies.
Oreo Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Put a spin on dessert with a cheesecake that draws everyone in. Oreo Cheesecake is a decadent treat that combines crowd-favorite cookies with rich, creamy cheesecake. It’s rich, indulgent, and has just the right amount of crunch. Watch each slice disappear as guests indulge in this favorite dessert.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Cheesecake

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If there’s one side that screams ‘picnic classic’, it’s this one. Macaroni Salad is the creamy counterpart your holiday cookout craves. Serve up a bowl and watch as guests dig in for a comforting bite. This dish proves that sometimes the traditional ways are hits for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

A close-up image of layered lemon raspberry cake slices topped with fresh raspberries and lemon zest.
Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dessert that layers on the flavor, look no further. A twist on a classic, Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars are tangy with just the right amount of sweetness. Easy to pick up and even easier to enjoy, these bars can add a splash of color to your spread. Every bite offers a blend of creamy and citrusy, perfect for those looking for something extra from their cheesecake.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Bars

Pico de Gallo

A bowl of pico de gallo with chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños with a spoon inside, next to a lime and tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Freshen up your festivities with a salsa that’s got bold flavors. Nothing beats the freshness of Pico de Gallo, a simple yet powerful mix that’s great on its own or as a topping. This is what you want by your side when you’re looking at a table full of grilled meats and tacos. Everyone will appreciate the fresh touch it brings to the table.
Get the Recipe: Pico de Gallo

Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza.
Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who says pizza needs to be all about the meat? Veggie Pizza is here to show how vegetables can take center stage. It’s a light, yet satisfying choice that’ll be a sure win for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Eating your greens has never been so appealing.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Introduce guests to a dish with a kick that’s as refreshing as it is spicy. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a crunchy, cool side that can liven up your table. It’s just the thing when you’re looking for a side that’s out of the ordinary. This salad is proof that spice can be nice when it’s served right.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats in star shapes, decked out in red, white, and blue colors, are sprinkled with fun decorations and beautifully stacked on a plate.
Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Give a cheer for the red, white, and blue with these treats. Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats are not only fun to eat but also fun to make and serve. They capture the spirit of the holiday in a sweet, crunchy bite. They’re sure to spark joy at your gathering, especially with the younger crowd.
Get the Recipe: Patriotic Rice Crispy Treats

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